Re-Bound by Jeannine Stein Review and Author Interview

I recently received a copy of Jeannine Stein's Re-Bound: Creating Handmade Books from Recycled and Repurposed Materials. Most bookbinding instructional books are quite a bit past my skill level. I was happy to see several projects in this book that, not only were at a skill level I was comfortable with, but felt new and exciting. The book on the front cover is made from, believe it or not, Starbucks gift cards. There a couple that I'm not so sure about but the majority of them feel like nice solid projects. This one made from cabinet cards with a stab binding is one of my favorites.


I was lucky enough to score an interview with the author as well.

What is your book about?
This is a how-to book on making books from new and vintage recycled and repurposed materials such as potato chip bags, sweaters, cabinet cards, record albums, hot water bottles and gift cards. There are 16 projects in the book that all have step-by-step instructions with illustrations, and 14 more books by other artists in the gallery. Each project features a different binding that even beginners can do. “Re-Bound” also includes tips and variations for each project.

How long have you been doing this type of craft or art?
I’ve been making books for more than 15 years, including photo albums, journals, sketch books, guest books, and notebooks. I’ve been crafting all my life, ever since I could hold a pair of scissors.

What inspired you to write this book?
I love to do fine bindings and work in traditional leather and bookboard, but while doing that I began to discover that exploring other mateirals offered a different challenge and satisfaction. I became inspired by flea makret finds such as vintage textiles and photographs, and started making books with them several years ago—it took my work to an entirely new level. I also love modern graphics on things like food and product packaging, and found they’re great for making books as well. At the same time I was doing this, I began to see fantastic work being done by other designers and artists who were turning existing items into furniture, clothes, accessories and lighting. I knew I wasn’t the only one who was crazy about working with recyclables.

What makes your book different?
All of the projects use recycled materials, which hasn’t been done before in a book on bookbinding. Although the projects are easy enough for a beginner to do, experienced binders and book artists will definitely find some challenges. Also, the text offers a lot of information on how and where to find materials, plus tips on how to work with them.

Who would enjoy or benefit most from this book?
Bookbinders and artists for sure, but also people who like working with recycled materials and found objects. Scrapbookers will really enjoy the projects, many of which can be used as albums. Photographers and artists are always looking for places to feature their work, and there are several books that are perfect for that.

Where will your book be available?
Sold: Barnes and Noble, Borders, Amazon, and a number of craft stores

Were there contributors to this book? If so, who were they?
The gallery contributors are: Norman Dixon, Charlene Matthews, Richard Troncone, Bee Shay, Dennis Yuen, Jennifer Kaiser, Susan Reardon, Holly Sar Dye, Andrew Borloz, Judi Delgado, Elaine Nishizu, Leslie C. Herger, Rhonda Miller, and Marcia Moore.